SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) Avera Health of South Dakota is the first member of the new Patient Care Network created by the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation to better fight the nation's drug epidemic.
Doctor Matt Stanley with Avera Behavioral Health Services explains how the new relationship might help a young Meth addict being treated in Sioux Falls.
"That might be anything from initial information about addiction and recovery to ongoing support after the patient has initially recovered."
Dr. Stanley says the new network will give Avera expanded tools and resources to help fight South Dakota's growing drug problems.
Avera Spokeswoman Michelle Pellman says since the health system already had a strong relationship with the Betty Ford Foundation, it just become a perfect fit to be the first member of the Foundation's new network.
The Foundation says the new network will create wide clincial alliances and share expertise with Avera and other health systems around the country.
The Foundation is a leader in the fight against drug addiction. It was named after President Gerald Ford's wife, Betty, who struggled for years with addiction.